NextGen Pathways to Computing Program

The NextGen Pathways to Computing Program provides opportunities for high school juniors and seniors, as well as recent graduates in accredited high schools or home school programs in Anderson, Blount, Knox, Loudon, and Roane counties, to learn about foundational computer and computational science skills. Participants will be mentored by ORNL research and technical staff while also being exposed to ORNL’s advanced research facilities, including the world’s most powerful supercomputer. The program focuses on solving challenging scientific and technical problems in energy and security, with a goal of providing participants with valuable skills needed for successful careers in computing fields. The program is open to any public, private, or home-schooled student attending a high school in eligible counties and offers a weekly stipend of up to $500, as well as optional professional development activities. The program requires a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0, a recommendation from a STEM teacher and principal, and completion of pre- and post-appointment surveys.

The NextGen Pathway to Computing Program is an ORNL internship program that offers high school juniors and seniors as well as recent graduates from accredited high school or home school programs located in Anderson, Blount, Knox, Loudon, and Roane counties the opportunity to learn foundational computer and computational science skills. Applicants must be at least 16 years old at the time of appointment and have a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0. Participants are expected to participate 40 hours per week and can miss a maximum of 5 days without stipend. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents, and rising juniors/seniors or recently graduated seniors who have not yet enrolled in college. The program benefits include a weekly stipend of up to $500, professional development activities and opportunities to learn from ORNL's research and technical staff. Applicants must complete an online application through Zintellect, obtain at least one recommendation from a STEM teacher and a principal or curriculum coordinator, and complete pre- and post-appointment surveys. Finally, participants are required to behave in a responsible and professional manner, avoid activities that interfere with the appointment period, and complete a report at the end of the appointment, as a rubric will be provided.